Deck Permits in Portland: When You Need One and What It Takes

Portland Permitting and Development sets one main trigger for decks: building permits are required for decks more than 30 inches above grade. Height is measured from the adjacent grade to the top of the walking surface, at its highest point.

When you do not need a permit

• Decks and patios where no part of the walking surface is more than 30 inches above adjacent grade.

• For uncovered decks, the City's table adds that no portion can be closer than three feet to an adjacent property line.

• Zoning rules still apply to exempt decks.

When you do

• Any deck with a walking surface more than 30 inches above grade.

• Attached decks over 30 inches also have to meet zoning setback and building coverage requirements.

• Covered decks are not covered by the City's deck publication. A roof changes the review, so confirm the path before drawing.

What the City checks

• Guardrails at least 36 inches tall from the walking surface, with openings that stop a 4 inch sphere, built to resist a 200 pound horizontal load at the top rail.

• Footings. Attached decks over 30 inches need concrete footings extending 12 inches below ground. Freestanding decks may bear on firm, native undisturbed soil.

• Materials. Pressure treated or naturally decay resistant wood such as cedar or redwood, with posts in ground contact stamped for ground contact.

• Stairs follow a separate City publication.

Who can build it

Owners of a single family home or duplex may hire a licensed contractor or, in some cases, do the work themselves. Either way, the permit drawings carry the framing, footing and ledger details the inspector will check.

Replacing an old deck

Replacing a deck more than 30 inches high is new work and needs a permit. An old deck that was never permitted is also a common item on home inspection reports, which makes a permitted replacement worth doing before a sale.

Common questions

Do I need a permit for a deck in Portland?

Yes, if the walking surface is more than 30 inches above adjacent grade. Lower decks are generally exempt, though zoning still applies.

Do I need a permit for a covered deck?

The City's deck publication does not cover covered decks. A roof adds structure and zoning questions, so confirm the review path with the City or a consultant before drawing.

How deep do deck footings need to be in Portland?

Attached decks over 30 inches need concrete footings extending 12 inches below ground. Freestanding decks may bear on firm, native undisturbed soil.

Can I build my own deck?

Owners of a single family home or duplex can, in some cases, do the work themselves under a permit.

How SASHKOV handles it

• Confirms the permit trigger, setbacks and coverage for the lot.

• Prepares deck drawings with framing, ledger, footing and guardrail details.

• Brings in a structural engineer for covered decks, tall decks or unusual spans.

• Submits the permit and tracks it through inspection to final.

Where a building requires a licensed architect or engineer of record, SASHKOV brings them into the contract.

Need drawings for a deck or covered deck? See Permit and Construction Documents. Building in Seattle instead? Read Deck Permits in Seattle.

Planning a deck? Send the address, size and height, and SASHKOV will confirm the permit path and timeline in business days.